JP2021021185A - Cidal metal or cidal metal alloy mask - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a mask made from material including a cidal metal or cidal metal alloy to solve the problem of conventional woven or fiber masks in which wicking promoting penetration of water permits bacteria and viruses to penetrate the masks, reducing the masks' filtering effectiveness.SOLUTION: A mask 10a for covering areas of a wearer's face includes a mask body constructed primarily of a material that includes a cidal metal or cidal metal alloy wherein the cidal metal or cidal metal alloy is the major structural component of the mask body. The mask body covers at least a portion of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when worn on the wearer's face. A filtering portion of the mask comprises copper mesh 28a or cidal metal alloy mesh for providing cidal action, air purification, and self-disinfection.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Face masks with filtering capacity are frequently worn for a wide range of purposes and applications. Such masks include disposable face masks, such as masks approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA: US Food and Drug Administration) for use in medical devices and devices worn by medical professionals. It can include disposable and multi-use masks such as dust masks and respirators used by industrial and household consumers, rigid and versatile masks, and many other types used in a variety of environments and situations. Some masks are labeled for specific applications, such as surgical masks, dental masks, medical procedure masks, isolation masks and laser masks.

There are several designs for such face masks. One type is a fabric, woven or soft material that is attached to the wearer's head with two laces and matches the face with a softness adjuster for the bridge of the nose, flat / pleated in shape or It can be a duck's beak. Another type of face mask is preformed or preformed, attached to the head with a single elastic band, and has a soft adjuster for the nasal bridge. The third type is flat / pleated and attaches to the head using ear loops. Respirator-type masks include removable or replaceable filters and / or exhalation valves.

FDA-approved face masks for medical devices are determined to have a certain level of protection from permeation of blood and body fluids. Face masks often help stop the spread of droplets by the wearer. These masks are often used to prevent splashes or splashes from reaching the mouth and nose of face mask wearers, but are often unintended to protect against fine particle aerosols.

Killing (pathogen and microbial killing) metals such as copper, silver and gold are traditional woven or fiber faces to improve the killing action and air purification due to the killing (bactericidal) antibacterial properties of such metals. Often incorporated into mask cotton, woven organic or polymer fabric structural materials. In some cases, a killing solution can also be applied to conventional mask structural materials. However, even with such killing substances, the main structural materials of conventional face masks still pose an important problem for the wearer.

In conventional woven or textile masks, the main structural materials of cotton, woven organic or polymer fabrics usually do not provide a physical barrier to water. Rather, such materials generally have wicking that actually promotes water permeation, regardless of whether water is repelled or splashed on the mask. Bacteria, viruses and other pathogens require water droplets to move through the air, but wicking allows bacteria and viruses to penetrate the mask, reducing the filtering effectiveness of the mask.

Also, woven or textile masks are disposable and are usually not suitable for reuse. Attempts to disinfect such masks, such as by autoclave treatment, can adversely affect the main structural material of the mask by weakening or altering the properties of its individual fibers or weaves. Therefore, it is often necessary to dispose of it after one use, which is costly and can be environmentally unhealthy.

It may be possible to form a rubber or plastic / polymer material into a rigid mask structure and add filtration elements to make a reusable mask, but such masks also have frequent replacement of filtration elements and It needs to be discarded and the filtration element itself is often a fiber or woven material. In addition, rigid rubber or plastic / polymer constructs can themselves carry bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Such masks are difficult to clean and disinfect, and frequent cleaning is also required as such materials themselves usually do not have killing properties. Therefore, such masks are costly, inefficient to use, inferior in environmental health, and inferior in their ability to protect the wearer from environmental factors.

Woven and fibrous materials, whether used as the main structural material or filter material of the mask, can also be uncomfortable for the wearer. When such materials are incorporated into masks, they usually require the user to exert high respiratory pressure and are sufficiently impervious to unpleasantly retain unwanted heat and moisture, and the wearer's eyeglasses or May cause cloudiness of the eye protection material.

The mask for covering the area of the wearer's face includes the mask body, which is mainly constructed of a material containing a killing metal or a killing metal alloy. The killing metal or the killing metal alloy is also the main structural component of the mask body. The mask body is arranged so as to cover the wearer's nose, mouth, or at least part of the nose and mouth when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.

The mask includes a filter section, which also contains a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh. The killing metal or killing metal alloy mesh provides killing action and air purification. The killing metal or killing metal alloy mesh of the filter section has an average wire diameter and average opening width small enough to prevent water permeation of the filter section due to water viscosity. However, to allow for supplemental mask hygiene and reuse, the average wire diameter and average opening width of the filter mesh is sufficient to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity. It is also a large size.

The filter portion of the mask containing the killing metal or killing metal alloy mesh can itself form the main structural component of the mask body, or it can be a separate sticking or removable mask component. In some embodiments, the use of killing metals or metal-killing alloys in the integral or separate mask body and filter allows alternative means of supplemental mask hygiene through methods such as heating or autoclaving. To do.

For a more complete understanding and evaluation of the present invention and its numerous advantages, the embodiments for carrying out the following inventions understood in connection with the accompanying drawings are referenced.

It is a perspective view of the copper mesh mask arranged on the face of the wearer which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. It is a left side view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. It is a right cross-sectional view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. 1 along the line 2B-2B of FIG. It is a perspective view of the copper mesh mask arranged on the face of the wearer which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a front view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. FIG. 4A is a left side view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. FIG. 4B is a right cross-sectional view of the copper mesh mask of FIG. 3 along line 4B-4B of FIG. It is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view of the mesh mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a left side view of the mesh mask of FIG. It is a right cross-sectional view of the mesh mask of FIG. 6 along the line 6B-6B of FIG. It is a front view of the mesh mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a left side view of the mesh mask of FIG. It is a right cross-sectional view of the mesh mask of FIG. 7 along the line 7B-7B of FIG. It is a perspective view of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the copper mesh mask arranged on the face of the wearer which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the mask which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention.

When referring to the drawings, some reference numbers are used to indicate the same or corresponding parts through some of the embodiments and figures described with the drawings. Variations in the corresponding parts are shown with lowercase letters in certain embodiments. Subsequent variations of the components shown but not described are intended to correspond to the particular embodiments mentioned above and are discussed to the extent that they differ in shape or function. In general, of course, variations of embodiments can be exchanged without departing from the intended scope of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mask 10a arranged on the face 12a of the wearer 14a. The mask 10a includes a mask body 16a fixed to the wearer's face 12a with an elastic band 18a. The elastic band 18a loops around the wearer's ear 20a, extends through the mask body 16a, and is fastened to the mask 10a with fasteners 22a. In this embodiment, the mask body 16a is sized to extend from under the wearer's eyes 24a over the wearer's nostrils and over the entire wearer's mouth, just above the lower part of the wearer's chin 26a. ..

The structure of the mask 10a is best understood by comparing the perspective view of the mask 10a on the face 12a of the wearer 14a of FIG. 1 with the front view of the mask 10a of FIG. 2 and the left side view of the mask 10a of FIG. 2A. To. A right cross-sectional view of the mask 10a along line 2B-2B of FIG. 2 is shown in FIG. 2B.

The body 16a of the mask 10a is constructed from a copper mesh 28a, which is a killing metal that can kill most pathogens and microorganisms but is harmless to humans. Copper mesh 28a is also very effective in filtering most small particulate matter. In the conceptual example of FIGS. 1-2B, the body 16a has an approximate wire diameter of 0.0045 inches and a width of 0.0045 inches, such as item # 100 × 100 0.0045 cu available from the Belleveville Will Cross Company in Cedar Grove, NJ. It is a copper mesh with an opening of 0.00555 inches, an opening area of about 30.3%, and a number of meshes per linear inch of about 100 x 100. The copper mesh 28a of the mask 10a of FIGS. 1 to 2B forms the mask body 16a. Therefore, the copper material of the mesh 28a is itself a major structural component of the mask body 16a and is also a filtration section 30a for providing killing action and air purification. The example in this figure utilizes copper as the main structural component of the mask body 16a, but of course other killing or metal killing metals such as silver, gold, bronze, brass and even novel killing alloys. Alloys can also be used within the scope of the invention envisioned. Further, of course, such other killing metals or alloys of killing metals can also be used as filters for masks within the scope of the present invention.

The copper mesh 28a is hydrophobic so that the applied water and water droplets tend not to penetrate the mask due to the original water tension and the relatively high normal water viscosity of about 8.94 × 10 ^-4 Pa-s. is there. Therefore, the water added to the mask body 16a tends to be beaded rather than passing through or being absorbed by the copper mesh 28a. The example of the figures in FIGS. 1-2B contemplates a copper mesh having an approximate wire diameter of 0.0045 inches, an approximate width opening of 0.00555 inches, and a mesh count of about 100 × 100 per linear inch. .. Of course, some preferred embodiments utilize meshes with similar water repellent hydrophobic properties. Similar meshes with wire diameters of about 0.0014 to 0.0045 inches, approximate width openings of 0.00170 to 0.00555 inches, and meshes per linear inch of about 100 x 100 to 325 x 325. It is likely to have the hydrophobic property of. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that any such killing metal mesh or killing metal alloy mesh having a wire diameter smaller than about 0.0100 inches, preferably less than about 0.0070 inches can be adequately implemented.

Such ranges also repel and resist wicking permeation of water alone, but such ranges also allow for supplemental hygiene and subsequent reuse of metal mesh masks with disinfectants. For example, the viscosity of a normal alcohol of 1.074 × 10 ^-3 Pa-s allows the permeation of the copper mesh 28a of the mask 10a of FIGS. 1-2B, thus using alcohol for supplemental mask disinfection. to enable. The 70% aqueous solution of isopropyl alcohol usually has a viscosity of 2.27 × 10 ^-3 Pa-s, and such a solution can also be used as a disinfectant on the same mask 10a. These structural disinfection effects are in addition to the original disinfection that occurs and continues due to the fact that both the filtration section 30a and the main structural component / mask body 16a are killing copper. In some embodiments, it may be even more advantageous to provide additional disinfection or sterilization by heating or autoclaving the mask. For example, in FIGS. 1-2B, the body 16a of the mask 10a can be heated or autoclaved, especially after the temporary removal of the elastic bands 18a and fasteners 22a.

In some embodiments, components that are not the major structural components of the mask, such as the elastic bands 18a and fasteners 22a of FIGS. 1-2B, are also constructed from copper or other killing metals or killing metal alloys, or at least them. It is also intended that it may be partially included. For example, the presence of additional copper in such non-major structural components is believed to allow exposure of additional copper ions to the air surrounding the wearer 14a's face 12a, thus further enhancing ambient air purification. ..

In some embodiments, other non-major structural components may also be added to improve the fit or placement of the mask on the wearer's face, in some embodiments partially or It can also be constructed entirely from killable metals or killable metal alloys. For example, the mask 10a of FIGS. 1-2B includes a soft placement rod 32a (not shown in FIG. 1) of the upper end 34a of the mask body 16a fixed by an overfold 36a of the mesh 28a and a small surplus portion 38a. The placement rod 32a is constructed from a material such as metal or metal alloy characterized by shape memory that allows the wearer to bend the rod 32a into a shape that improves the fit of the mask 10a on the wearer's nose. .. The overfold 36a and surplus portion 38 of the mesh 28a also improve the rigidity and fit of the mask 10a when formed to fit the rod 32a. The metallographic structure of the rod 32a can be a killing metal or a killing metal alloy wholly or partially to enhance exposure to killing metal ions, as well as additional hygiene of the mask 10a by heating or autoclaving. to enable.

Additional components may be added to improve the stiffness, placement, and tightness of the mask with respect to the wearer's face. Referring to FIG. 3, a copper mesh according to one intended embodiment having a peripheral barrier 40 to improve closure and reinforcement and reduce the space spacing between the mask 10b and the face 12b of the wearer 14b. Mask 10b is shown. A front view, a side view, and a side cross-sectional view of the mask 10b of FIG. 3 are shown in FIGS. 4 to 4B. Although the peripheral barrier 40 is attached around the peripheral portion of the mask 10b, the barrier 40 is within the scope of the present invention because it is not itself part of the copper mesh 28a forming the mask body 16b. It can be constructed from non-killing metal materials such as woven fabrics or rubber. Alternatively, the peripheral barrier 40 may be constructed from a non-metallic fabric or fibrous material in which a killing metal or a killing metal alloy material is added to the fabric or fibrous material, whereby the barrier 40 is formed on the mask 10b. It can contribute to killing action and / or air purification capacity. Alternatively, the peripheral barrier 40 itself may be constructed entirely from a killing metal such as copper or a killing metal alloy material, which allows the mask 10b to have an overall killing effect and / or air purification capacity. The contribution of the barrier 40 to is maximized, allowing supplemental hygiene via heating or autoclaving, optionally without the need for removal of the barrier 40 or damage to the mask 10b. The use of a simple knot fastener 22b further facilitates such disinfection or sterilization operations by allowing easy removal and replacement of the elastic band 18b.

The present invention is described with the figure with any reinforced rods and peripheral barriers placed along the edges and perimeter of the mask, but within the expectations of the present invention some end and perimeter structures. Needless to say, is possible. For example, FIG. 5A is a right cross-sectional view of the upper part of the mask 10c, where the killing metal mesh 28c of the mask body 16c is simply bent along the upper end 34c of the mask 10c to reinforce the mask body 16c. A metal mesh overfold 36c has been made. Similar bends can also be located along the side and bottom edges of the mask 10c to increase the stiffness of the entire mask.

FIG. 5B shows a ring-shaped overfold 36d along the upper end 34d of the mask 10d according to one intended embodiment, where the ring-shaped configuration of the overfold 36d leaves an overfold space 42d. In comparison, FIG. 5B can be compared with the mask 10e of FIG. 5C, in which the ring-shaped overfold 36e is arranged in plane contact with the filtration portion 30e of the mask body 16e. It is terminated by the surplus portion 38e of the mesh 28c, and the rigidity of the mask is further enhanced. 5D and 5E show the upper ends 34g and 34h of masks 10g and 10h similar to those of FIGS. 5B and 5C, respectively, and in addition in FIGS. 5D and 5E, for further strengthening and placement of masks 10g and 10h, The placement rods 32g and 32h occupy the overfold spaces 42d and 42e of FIGS. 5B and 5C. Therefore, the configuration of the upper end 34h of the mask 10h of FIG. 5E resulting is similar to the mask 10a described with the figures of FIGS. 2-2B.

It is also possible to manipulate the stiffness of the mask by providing various configurations of mesh bending of the body and filter of the killing metal or killing metal alloy mask. FIG. 6 shows the mask 10i in the front view of the present invention, the left side view of the mask 10i is shown in FIG. 6A, and the right cross-sectional view along the line 6B-6B of FIG. 6 is shown in FIG. 6B. A plurality of pleats 44 are added to the copper mesh 28i of the mask body 16i, which is best understood by comparing the front view of FIG. 6 with the side and side cross-sectional views of FIGS. 6A and 6B. The pleats 44 extend horizontally along the width of the main body 16i and the filtration section 30i of the mask 10i. In addition to increasing the overall rigidity of the mask 10i, the pleats also have an additional angled surface area that allows for increased air interaction with the filtration section 30i of the mesh 28i of the mask body 16i and copper ions. Provides to enhance killing and air purification. The use of fasteners 22i allows easy removal of the elastic band 18i for supplemental disinfection or sterilization of the mask 10i by heating or autoclaving.

Other bent mesh configurations are also possible. For example, FIG. 7 shows the mask 10j in the front view of the present invention, the left side view of the mask 10j is shown in FIG. 7A, and the right cross-sectional view along the line 7B-7B of FIG. 7 is shown in FIG. 7B. A plurality of creases 46 are added to the copper mesh 28j of the mask body 16j, which is best understood by comparing the front view of FIG. 7 with the side and side cross sections of FIGS. 7A and 7B. The crease 46 extends horizontally along the entire width of the main body 16j of the mask 10j and the filtration portion 30j. Like the pleated 44 of FIGS. 6-6B, the creases 46 of FIGS. 7-7B also increase the overall rigidity of the mask 10j. The fold 46 provides further stratification of the copper mesh 28j and further provides an easily manufactured means for strengthening the mask 10i. Such further stratification allows for increased air interaction with the filtration section 30j of the mesh 28j of the mask body 16j and copper ions, enhancing killing and air purification. In this intended embodiment, a fastener knot 22j is also used to allow easy removal of the elastic band 18j.

The present invention is described with the figure in the case where the killing metal or killing metal alloy mesh forms both the mask body and the filter section of the mask, but of course has separate mask body and filter section. Masks are also possible and are within the scope of the present invention. For example, FIG. 8 shows a mask 10k of the present invention having a rigid stamped or molded copper mask body 16k and a separate copper mesh filter 30k. In FIG. 8, the filtration unit 30k is shaded to distinguish the position on the mask 10k with respect to the mask body 16k.

In this example of FIG. 8, the mask body 16k is entirely copper, and thus copper is the main structural component of the body. A copper mesh 28k is used for the filtration section 30k, which can be directly fused, welded, coupled or joined to the mask body 16k itself. The copper mesh 28k may be made during the manufacture of the mask body 16k such that the filtration section 30k and the mask body 16k are formed from the continuous copper pieces and into the continuous copper pieces by stamping or otherwise. .. Since the mask body 16k is a rigid and impermeable copper structure, the air flow due to the wearer's breathing is guided to the filtration section 30k by the mask body 16k, and the copper of the mask body 16k is guided between the leads. Also provides a killing effect, but enhances the overall killing and air purification effect and efficiency of the mask 10k. Although both the mask body and the filter section of the present invention are described in FIG. 8 as being made of copper, of course, different killing metals or metal killing alloys are used within the intended range of the present invention. May be or combined.

The elastic band 18k is connected to the pinch slit 48k through the side flap 50k of the mask body 16k. The pinch slit 48k allows for easy adjustment by the wearer and easy removal of the elastic band from the mask 10k and easy re-installation on the mask 10k. This feature of this intended embodiment may be particularly useful when frequent supplemental disinfection or sterilization of the mask 10k by heating or autoclaving is desired or required.

The present invention also contemplates the use of multiple filters when the filter is distinguished from the rest of the mask body. FIG. 9 shows a mask 10l of the present invention similar to that shown in FIG. 8, but with separate upper filtration section 52 and lower filtration section 54. In FIG. 9, both the upper filtration unit 52 and the lower filtration unit 54 are shaded to distinguish their positions on the mask 10l with respect to the mask body 16l.

When the mask 10l is correctly placed on the wearer's face, the upper filter 52 is placed closer to the upper end 34l of the mask 10l closer to the wearer's nose and the lower filter 54 is in the wearer's mouth. Placed in close proximity. This configuration is less dependent on air conduction to the filter section 30l by the mask body 16l, allows easier breathing, and the killing action and air purification by the mask 10l itself is more efficient. Become a target. Both the upper filtration section 52 and the lower filtration section 54 are constructed of a killing metal or killing metal alloy mesh bonded to the killing metal alloy of the mask body 16 liters, and promote supplemental hygiene by heating or autoclaving. Will be done. Therefore, an elastic band 18l connected to a pinch slit 48l through a side flap 50l of the mask body 16l is used to enable easy removal of the elastic band from the mask body 10l and easy re-installation on the mask body 10l. It is even more advantageous to do so.

Although the mask is described with the figure as covering both the wearer's nose and mouth, it goes without saying that a mask covering only the wearer's mouth or only the nose is also within the scope of the invention. For example, FIG. 10 shows a copper mesh mask 10m placed on the face 12m of the wearer 14m, where the copper mesh 28m forms both the mask body 16m and the filtration section 30m. When placed on the wearer's 14m face 12m, the upper end 34m of the mask 10m extends just below the wearer's eyes 24m, the lower end 56 stays above the wearer's mouth 58, and only the wearer's nose. cover.

While the mask 10m is placed on the wearer's face 12m, the elastic band 18m extends around the wearer's ears 20m to secure the mask 10m in place. When the band 18m pulls the copper mesh 28m of the mask 10m, the band 18m also tightens both ends of the mask 10m so that the upper end 34m and the lower end 56 are attracted closer, and the tightening range is the size of the nose, etc. It depends on the characteristics of the wearer's face 12m. The wearer 14m then bends the copper mesh 28m to create a triangular tack 60 that allows the mask body 16m to better wrap the wearer's face 12m and nose. The size of the tack 60 usually varies depending on the facial features of the wearer, with a larger nose having a smaller tack 60 and a smaller nose having a larger tack 60. For the copper mesh mask 10 m shown in FIG. 10, one suitable copper mesh for the mask body 16 m and filter 30 m is also available from the Bellevile Wire Cloth Company in Cedar Grove, NJ # 120 × 120 0. An approximate wire diameter of 0.0037 inches, a width opening of 0.0046 inches, an opening area of about 30.7%, and a number of meshes per linear inch of about 120 x 120, such as .0037cu. The inclusion of the tack 60 of the mask 10 m constructed from such a mesh 28 m allows for a considerable killing effect and air purification of the mask 10 m. Further, of course, a mask using a similar copper mesh or other killing metal material that covers only the wearer's mouth and not the nose also has a killing effect and air purification within the intended range of the present invention. Can be built for.

In some embodiments, it is further contemplated that a mask covering only the wearer's nose or mouth may be constructed to avoid the need for tack in the metal mesh mask body. For example, FIG. 11 shows a killable metal mesh mask 10n of the present invention designed to fit only over the wearer's nose and not over the wearer's mouth. The rigid flap 50n, which is part of the mask body 16n, is constructed from a killing metal or a killing metal alloy, allowing the attachment of the elastic band 18n while resisting the tightening of the mask body 16n and the filter 30n. In this way, the need for tack for optimal mask placement is avoided. The filtration section 30n of the mask body 16n is also a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh 28n that provides killing action and air purification. Therefore, the killing metal or killing metal alloy used for the flap 50n and the filtration section 30n is the main structural component of the mask body 16n. Staples 23 are used to secure the elastic band 18n to the flap 50n as an alternative to attachment to the mask 10n. In some embodiments, the staple 23 is also intended to be constructed from a killing metal or a killing metal alloy.

Furthermore, as a matter of course, the present invention can also be appropriately implemented in a respirator type mask. For example, FIG. 12 shows a mask 10o of the invention formed or stamped into a semi-rigid respirator shape having a copper mesh mask body 16o with flaps 50o that allows attachment of elastic bands 18o via fasteners 22o. .. The mask body 16o is constructed from permeable copper mesh 28o to provide killing action and air purification, but also includes an exhalation valve 62o to further facilitate the escape of exhaled moisture from the mask 10o. A properly implemented exhalation valve will greatly limit or prevent air from entering the respirator-type mask, but will allow most of the exhalation to escape the mask, between the wearer's face and the mask body. Further limit water accumulation in the intervening space. Such valves are commercially available, such as COOL FLOW ™ Respirator Valve, available from 3M Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. In some embodiments, it is further contemplated that some or all of the components of the exhalation valve 62o may be constructed from killing metals or alloys of killing metals to further provide killing action and air purification.

Although the present invention has been described with the figure using a fixed or non-removable filter, of course, some embodiments of the invention are consumable and / or removable filters. Can be included. For example, FIG. 13 shows a respirator-type mask 10p of the present invention having an impermeable non-mesh mask body 16p, which is formed or stamped to contribute to the killing action and air purification capacity of the mask 10p. It is constructed from killing metals or alloys of killing metals. The mask 10p includes an exhalation valve 62p for reducing water accumulation in the space between the wearer's face and the mask body 16p when the mask 10p is worn. The exhalation valve 62p is removable and both the exhalation valve 62p and the mask body 16p may be threaded to allow easy removal and re-installation of the exhalation valve 62p.

The filter portion 30p of the mask 10p is a two removable filters 64 each comprising a filter housing 66 surrounding a killing metal mesh or killing metal alloy mesh filter element (enclosed by a filter housing 66 and not visible in FIG. 13). including. Although the filter element provides much of the killing and air purifying effect of the mask 10p, many embodiments within the intended range of the present invention are some or all components of the exhalation valve 62p and the removable filter 64. Copper or other killing metals or metal killing alloys are intended to supplement the mask body 16p and mesh filter elements in enhancing the overall killing and air purification capacity of the mask 10p.

Both the filter housing 66 and the mask body 16p can be threaded to allow easy removal and re-installation of the filter 64. During a typical use cycle, the exhalation valve 62p and filter 64 are periodically removed from the mask body 10p and the mesh filter element is removed from the filter housing 66 to heat or autoclave the mask body 16p and exhalation. It is further contemplated that supplemental hygiene of other mask components such as the valve 62p, mesh filter element and filter housing 66 will be promoted. The mask 10p includes a pinch slit 48p of flap 50p to allow easy removal and replacement of the elastic band 18p during supplemental hygiene of such routines.

The present invention is described with the figure as being secured to the wearer's face using an elastic band for attachment behind the wearer's ears throughout various exemplary embodiments, but of course. While worn for killing and air purification with one elastic band, one or more strings, straps, belts, bands, temporary facial adhesives, or masks to secure around the wearer's head Other mounting means, such as the nose, mouth or nose of a person and any other form of temporary mask mounting that allows proper placement on the nose, are also possible within the scope of the invention.

As a matter of course to those skilled in the art, the present invention allows for embodiments different from those described with the figures. Of course, the structural details of the disclosed devices and methods can be modified in various ways without departing from the invention itself. Therefore, the drawings and embodiments for carrying out the invention must be considered to include equivalents that do not deviate from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (95)

A mask for covering the area of the wearer's face, the mask is
A mask body, wherein the mask body is mainly constructed of a material containing a killing metal or a killing metal alloy, wherein the killing metal or the killing metal alloy is a main structural component of the mask body. Including the main body
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least part of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.
The mask has a filter, which comprises a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh to provide killing action, air purification and self-disinfection.
mask. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the filtration unit filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. The mask of claim 1, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve the closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. The mask of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcing wire for arranging the mask with respect to the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face. The mask of claim 1, further comprising pleats on the filter. The mask of claim 1, further comprising a crease on the filter. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the main structural component of the mask body is a soft mesh. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the main structural component is formed on a rigid mask body. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the filtration unit can be removed from the mask body. The mask of claim 1, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and an average opening width of a size sufficient to allow permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution which is an alcohol solution through the filter. The killing metal or killing metal alloy is at least one of copper, silver, gold, bronze, brass, copper alloys, gold alloys, silver alloys or novel killing alloys, according to claim 1. mask. A mask for covering the area of the wearer's face, the mask is
A mask body, wherein the mask body is mainly constructed of a material containing a killing metal or a killing metal alloy, wherein the killing metal or the killing metal alloy is a main structural component of the mask body. Including the main body
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least part of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.
The mask has a filter, which comprises a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh to provide killing action, air purification and self-disinfection.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter due to water viscosity.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate through the filter with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity.
mask. The mask according to claim 14, wherein the filtration unit filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask according to claim 14, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. 14. The mask of claim 14, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve the closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. 14. The mask of claim 14, further comprising a reinforcing wire for placing the mask against the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face. The mask of claim 14, further comprising pleats on the filter. 14. The mask of claim 14, further comprising a crease on the filter. The mask according to claim 14, wherein the main structural component of the mask body is a soft mesh. The mask according to claim 14, wherein the main structural component is formed on a rigid mask body. The mask according to claim 14, wherein the filtration unit can be removed from the mask body. 14. The killing metal or killing metal alloy is at least one of copper, silver, gold, bronze, brass, copper alloys, gold alloys, silver alloys or novel killing alloys, according to claim 14. mask. The mask of claim 14, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution, which is an alcohol solution, through the filter. The mask of claim 14, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is about 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 14, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is between about 0.0014 and 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 14, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0070 inches. The mask of claim 14, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. The mask of claim 14, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is between about 0.0070 and 0.00555 inches. The mask of claim 14, wherein the average width opening of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. A mask for covering the wearer's nose, the mask
A mask body, wherein the mask body is mainly constructed of a material containing a killing metal or a killing metal alloy, wherein the killing metal or the killing metal alloy is a main structural component of the mask body. Including the main body
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least a part of the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face.
The mask body has a filter, which comprises a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh to provide killing action, air purification and self-disinfection.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter due to water viscosity.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate through the filter with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity.
mask. The mask according to claim 32, wherein the filtration unit filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask according to claim 32, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. 32. The mask of claim 32, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve the closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. 32. The mask of claim 32, further comprising a reinforcing wire for placing the mask on the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face. The mask of claim 32, further comprising pleats on the filter. 32. The mask of claim 32, further comprising a crease on the filter. The mask according to claim 32, wherein the main structural component of the mask body is a soft-killing metal or a soft-killing metal alloy mesh. The mask according to claim 32, wherein the main structural component is formed on a rigid metal or rigid metal alloy mask body. The mask according to claim 32, wherein the filtration unit can be removed from the mask body. 32. The killing metal or killing metal alloy is at least one of copper, silver, gold, bronze, brass, copper alloys, gold alloys, silver alloys or novel killing alloys. mask. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution, which is an alcohol solution, through the filter. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is about 0.0045 inches. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is between about 0.0014 and 0.0045 inches. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0070 inches. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average width opening of the mesh is between about 0.0070 and 0.00555 inches. 32. The mask of claim 32, wherein the average width opening of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. A mask for covering the area of the wearer's face, the mask is
A mask body, wherein the mask body is mainly constructed from copper or a copper alloy, the copper or copper alloy comprising a mask body, which is a major structural component of the mask body.
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least part of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.
The mask body has a filter, which comprises a copper mesh or a copper alloy mesh to provide killing action, air purification and self-disinfection.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter due to water viscosity.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate through the filter with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity.
mask. The mask of claim 50, wherein the filtration section filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask according to claim 50, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. The mask of claim 50, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. The mask of claim 50, further comprising a stiffener wire for placing the mask against the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face. The mask of claim 50, further comprising pleats on the filter. The mask of claim 50, further comprising a crease on the filter. The mask according to claim 50, wherein the main structural component of the mask body is a soft copper mesh or a copper alloy mesh. The mask according to claim 50, wherein the main structural component is formed on a rigid copper or rigid copper alloy mask body. The mask according to claim 50, wherein the filtration unit can be removed from the mask body. The mask of claim 50, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution, which is an alcohol solution, through the filter. The mask of claim 50, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is about 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 50, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is between about 0.0014 and 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 50, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0070 inches. The mask of claim 50, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. The mask of claim 50, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is between about 0.0070 and 0.00555 inches. The mask of claim 50, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. A mask for covering the area of the wearer's face, the mask is
A mask body, wherein the mask body is mainly constructed of a material containing a killing metal mesh or a killing metal alloy mesh, the killing metal mesh or killing metal alloy mesh is killing, air purifying and. A filter portion for providing self-sterilization is included, and the filter portion of the killing metal mesh or the killing metal alloy mesh comprises a mask body, which is a major structural component of the mask body.
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least part of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter due to water viscosity.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate through the filter with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity.
mask. The mask of claim 67, wherein the filtration unit filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask of claim 67, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. 67. The mask of claim 67, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. 67. The mask of claim 67, further comprising a reinforcing wire for placing the mask against the wearer's nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face. The mask of claim 67, further comprising pleats on the filter. The mask of claim 67, further comprising a crease on the filter. 22. The killing metal or killing metal alloy is at least one of copper, silver, gold, bronze, brass, copper alloys, gold alloys, silver alloys or novel killing alloys, claim 67. mask. The mask of claim 67, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution, which is an alcohol solution, through the filter. The mask of claim 67, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is about 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 67, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is between about 0.0014 and 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 67, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0070 inches. The mask of claim 67, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. The mask of claim 67, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is between about 0.0070 and 0.00555 inches. The mask of claim 67, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. A mask for covering the area of the wearer's face, the mask is
A mask body, wherein the mask body is predominantly constructed of a material containing a copper mesh or a copper alloy mesh, the copper mesh or the copper alloy mesh being filtered to provide killing action, air purification and self-disinfection. The copper mesh or the filtering portion of the copper alloy mesh comprises a mask body, which is a major structural component of the mask body.
The mask body is arranged so as to cover at least part of the wearer's mouth, nose, or mouth and nose when the mask is worn over the wearer's face.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to prevent the permeation of water through the filter due to water viscosity.
The filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the disinfectant solution to permeate through the filter with a disinfectant solution viscosity lower than the water viscosity.
mask. The mask of claim 82, wherein the filtration section filters fungi, pathogens and microorganisms. The mask of claim 82, wherein the filtration unit filters dust and particles. 82. The mask of claim 82, further comprising a peripheral barrier to improve closure between the mask body and the wearer's face. 82. The mask of claim 82, further comprising a reinforcing wire for placing the mask against the wearer's nose when the mask is worn on the wearer's face. The mask of claim 82, further comprising pleats on the filter. 82. The mask of claim 82, further comprising a crease on the filter. The mask of claim 82, wherein the filter has an average wire diameter and average opening width large enough to allow the permeation of alcohol or a disinfectant solution, which is an alcohol solution, through the filter. The mask of claim 82, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is about 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 82, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is between about 0.0014 and 0.0045 inches. The mask of claim 82, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0070 inches. The mask of claim 82, wherein the average wire diameter of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches. The mask of claim 82, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is between about 0.0070 and 0.00555 inches. The mask of claim 82, wherein the mean width opening of the mesh is less than about 0.0100 inches.